The Minister of Information and National Orientation, Alhaji Mohammed Idris, has described the 2026 budget as a strategic tool to consolidate the gains of President Bola Tinubu’s reform agenda, which he says is already delivering positive results.
Speaking in a statement released by his Special Assistant on Media, Malam Rabiu Ibrahim, Idris called the budget the “Budget of Consolidation, Renewed Resilience and Shared Prosperity”, stressing its role in doubling down on successful policies and ensuring tangible benefits reach more Nigerians.
“The last 31 months have involved difficult but necessary changes, from decisive economic measures aimed at ending stagnation to initiatives building a more stable future,” he said. “We are now seeing progress: business activity is expanding, investor confidence is rising, inflation is easing, and our external reserves are strengthening. These numbers translate into real improvements in Nigerians’ daily lives.”
Idris also highlighted the government’s efforts to maintain trust and open communication with citizens. He cited key interventions such as the student loan programme (NELFUND), the Presidential CNG initiative, youth-focused projects like LEEP, the Jubilee Fellows Programme, and the 3MTT initiative.
On food security, the minister pointed to recapitalisation of the Bank of Agriculture and expanded mechanisation, while major infrastructure projects including the Coastal Highway, Sokoto–Badagry Motorway, AKK Gas Pipeline, and new rail developments are aimed at reducing costs and boosting national connectivity.
Addressing security, Idris affirmed the government’s commitment to strengthening recruitment, equipment, and international cooperation, citing the recent rescue of abducted students in Kebbi and Niger States as evidence of progress.
He urged Nigerians to see nation-building as a shared responsibility, encouraging constructive engagement, protection of public assets, and rejection of misinformation. Idris also praised President Tinubu’s leadership, noting that recent diplomatic engagements with the United States have bolstered bilateral ties and Nigeria’s anti-insurgency efforts.
“As the new year begins, I urge Nigerians to stay focused on the future. We have laid a new foundation; now, we must build the house together,” he concluded.
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